Description
Experience the bright, refreshing flavor of Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup, a hearty and wholesome dish combining tender chicken, aromatic herbs, and zesty lemon. Perfect for cozy evenings or revitalizing lunches, this homemade soup is easy to make and packed with vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 4 cups chicken broth (preferably homemade for richer flavor)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or dill for garnish
- Optional: Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Cook the chicken in a pot with boiling water or broth until fully cooked, about 15 minutes. Shred the chicken and set aside.
- In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery; sauté until tender, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the orzo pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in shredded chicken, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to meld flavors.
- Turn off heat. Garnish with chopped parsley or dill. Optionally, top with Parmesan cheese. Serve hot.
Notes
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for maximum brightness.
- Adjust the lemon to your taste—add more for tanginess.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or red pepper flakes.
- Homemade chicken broth enhances the flavor significantly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 250 Kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 70mg